On the occasion of the National Flag Day of Canada held annually on 15 February, the Ambassador of Canada to Kuwait H.E. Louis-Pierre Émond hosted a reception at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on 17 January. Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Al-Jarallah graced the function as the chief guest
In his address to the audience, the Canadian Ambassador welcomed the large gathering, and remarked that the Canadian flag is a unique symbol that stands for inclusive economic growth, open and transparent government, diversity, and security.
He lauded the bilateral relationship shared between Kuwait and Canada in terms of commerce, investment, education, defense and diplomacy. He also pointed to the short visit by the Canadian Governor General in January 2019 that underlined the significance of the Canada-Kuwait relationship. He pointed to the number of Kuwaiti students studying in Canada, and noted that they continue to grow every year, with close to 400 students studying in Canada this year.
Canadian Ambassador Émond added, “Our efforts to help our Canadian companies diversify their export markets are working and we see more and more companies do business in Kuwait. The focus is still on oil & gas but we are working hard on identifying potential projects in new areas such as infrastructure, life sciences, food and agri-food products, and ICT.”
He announced an important new investment in Canada by CKPC, “a joint-venture between PIC and Pembina.” He said, “This important announcement showcases the strength of our economy and the confidence it inspires in foreign investors. This should pave the way for more investment projects in Canada by new players, and expansion for partners already present in the market.”
Canadian Ambassador Émond further praised Kuwait “for its important role on the world stage advocating for peaceful solutions, for dialogue and communication, which is in line with Canada’s approach.”
He concluded his speech by expressing his congratulations to “H.H. the Amir on the occasion of the 13th anniversary of his ascension to power.”
“On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to wish Kuwait a Happy National Day and Liberation Day,” he added.
On his part, Deputy Foreign Minister Al-Jarallah praised the steadily growing relations between Kuwait and Canada in various fields, and disclosed the plan to hold a major economic forum in Canada in April, which aims to tackle important issues with regards to investment, economic and energy sectors.